Measles may be prevented through immunization.

"The risk of measles to the general public is low but we are still urging people born in 1970 or later to check their immunization status," said Dr. David Mowat, Peel Region Medical Officer of Health.

Peel Public Health has been taking every measure to protect the health of Peel residents and to ensure that the measles virus does not spread in the Peel community.

The signs and symptoms of measles include fever; cough, runny nose; red, burning, teary eyes; white spots on the inner lining of the mouth; and a rash which starts on day three to five of the illness and can last up to six days.

If individuals think that they have developed the symptoms of measles, they should seek the advice of a physician. These individuals should not seek medical attention without first calling ahead to tell the medical personnel, so that steps can be taken to prevent measles from being passed on to others.

Most people who get the measles are sick for about 10 days and recover completely without any treatment. Measles can be more severe for infants, adults and pregnant women.

A person who is infected with measles can spread the virus to others through coughing and sneezing. Measles is very easily spread from person to person. A person with measles can spread the disease from four days before to four days after the onset of rash.

An assessment by a physician and blood tests are required to confirm the diagnosis. Individuals who feel sick and think they have symptoms, should stay home from work and school and avoid social gatherings.

For more information on measles and immunization, call Peel Public Health at 905-799-7700 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, or visit http://www.region.peel.on.ca/ and http://www.immunizepeel.ca/